The Impact of Social Media on Youth Identity Formation: A Sociological Perspective

Abstract

The introduction of social media in the modern era of digital technology has brought about a significant change in the terrain of identity building processes among young people. This study paper, which is grounded on a sociological approach, sets out to conduct an in-depth investigation of the complex link that exists between social media and the formation of identity among young people. The purpose of this study is to uncover the complex mechanisms by which social media platforms influence the formation, expression, and negotiation of identity among today's youth. This will be accomplished through an in-depth analysis of sociological theories, empirical studies, and real-life case examples. Beginning with a contextualization of the ubiquitous effect of social media inside the lives of young persons, the study establishes social media as a main arena for identity negotiation before moving on to the next section. This article examines the ways in which social media platforms function as instruments for selfpresentation and identity expression. These platforms provide a space for young people to build and convey their identities to an audience that spans the globe.